Hike of the week: Cedar River Trail

Description: The trail follows the river from where it enters Lake Washington in Renton upriver to the community of Landsburg at the boundary of the city of Seattle's Cedar River Watershed. The total length of the trail is 17.3 miles, with the western 12.3 miles paved and ADA accessible. Hikers, bicyclists, joggers and equestrians use the soft surface of the eastern 5 miles.

Description: The trail follows the river from where it enters Lake Washington in Renton upriver to the community of Landsburg at the boundary of the city of Seattle's Cedar River Watershed. The total length of the trail is 17.3 miles, with the western 12.3 miles paved and ADA accessible. Hikers, bicyclists, joggers and equestrians use the soft surface of the eastern 5 miles.

This hike takes you along the eastern portion of the Cedar River Trail, the more secluded and wooded area. Start at the trailhead across from the slalom course. The Cedar River Trail is a Rails-to-Trails path that follows the old Seattle to Walla Walla railway route. The converted railways offer an easy hike. You might notice old telephone poles growing out of the brush, bringing you back to the days of the Wild West. At the end of your hike, stay a while at the picnic area in Landsburg park.

Directions: Take state Route 18 eastbound and exit at 272nd Street. Follow 272nd (or Kent-Kangley road) through Covington and Maple Valley. Take the first left onto Summit Landsburg Road. At the first stop sign (in 4.4 miles), turn left onto Landsburg Road Southeast. Go down the hill, cross the Cedar River and park on either side of the road.